Ailantine

/ˌeɪ.ləˈænˌtin/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or characteristic of the ailanthus tree or its properties.

Etymology

From ailanthus plus the Latin suffix -ine meaning 'of or pertaining to,' used in technical botanical and scientific contexts to describe qualities related to the ailanthus.

Kelly Says

This suffix -ine appears in scientific names like 'canine' (dog-like) and 'feline' (cat-like), so 'ailantine' literally means 'ailanthus-like'—a fancy way botanists say something shares traits with the tree!

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